Workplace stress is a common experience for many individuals, regardless of their sobriety status. However, when you’re newly sober, stress can be particularly triggering, potentially jeopardizing your recovery. If you’re dealing with on-the-job stress, there are some steps you can take to maintain your well-being, protect your sobriety and thrive in the workplace.
Self-Care As Your Secret Weapon
When it comes to dealing with workplace stress, self-care should be your secret weapon. Staying on top of your mental, physical and emotional health is not only crucial to maintaining your sobriety, but it’s also important for dealing with stress more effectively. Engage in self-care activities that promote wellness, such as eating healthily, learning a new hobby, exercising regularly and doing things you enjoy. If necessary, use your PTO or vacation days to take time off to manage your recovery and recharge your batteries.
Cultivate Supportive Work Relationships
Creating a supportive network of colleagues can make a world of difference in managing workplace stress. Seek out individuals who are understanding and empathetic, and consider sharing your journey of sobriety with trusted coworkers if you feel comfortable doing so. Having a support system at work can provide a sense of belonging and help alleviate stress. Additionally, consider reaching out to your employee assistance program (EAP) or human resources department to explore available resources that can support your well-being.
Set Boundaries
One of the most crucial aspects of managing workplace stress when newly sober is setting boundaries. It’s important to communicate your needs to your supervisor and colleagues to minimize the risk of feeling overwhelmed and maintain a healthy work-life balance. You might consider limiting how often you check your work email, prioritizing or delegating tasks to manage your workload and establishing a clear schedule to remind others of your availability.
Prioritize Your Recovery
While it can be tempting to mitigate workplace stress with drugs or alcohol, a relapse will do more harm than good and put your job, health and relationships in jeopardy. If you’re really struggling, spend time with people who know what you’re going through. You can find support and guidance through local 12-step meetings, alumni programs and other addiction support groups. Continuing to attend regular therapy or counseling sessions will also help you prioritize your recovery and learn healthy strategies for managing workplace stress.
Thrive in Your Professional Life
The demands of work and the ongoing process of recovery creates a unique set of obstacles to navigate. However, with the right support and strategies, you can manage workplace stress successfully and thrive in your professional life. Embrace this new chapter with confidence, trust in your resilience and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it — together, we can build a healthier, more fulfilling work environment that supports recovery and well-being.
For more information on how New Day Recovery can support your journey to wellness, feel free to contact us at (318) 855 -8773 to schedule an appointment.
